Lost with Luis {Holiday Edition}: DIY Christmas Wreath

This past weekend I continued my holiday celebrations with some DIY wreath decorating fun. With everything going on in the world and a very stressful election with our friends south of the border, I wanted a little mental escape and so I kept myself busy with some fun Christmas activities!

I went to my local garden centre to pick out the perfect undecorated wreath that would serve as the base of my wreath. I figured I would get something simple and build on top of that.

Next, I went to my local flower shop to get some additional greenery. I've been really enjoying eucalyptus plants this year so I settled for three types of eucalyptus (baby blue, silver dollar and parvafolia) as well as a bough of Western cedar.

Tip: Before I began decorating the wreath, I soaked the wreath (and greenery) overnight in the bathtub so that it could retain as much water as possible and last longer. After that, I let it dry outside for a few hours.

Once it dried, I sprayed it with Wilt Pruf, which essentially helps the wreath retain its moisture so that it can last longer. Once again, I let it dry for a few hours.

Time to get started! But first, let's pour myself a glass of wine and get the Christmas tunes going. Obviously.

I had a few leftover nicknacks like pinecones lying around the house so I figured I would incorporate those. Dollar stores are great for this type of stuff if you don't have anything.

The great thing about wreaths is that you can really add whatever you want! Make it you and add colours that go with your decor or taste.

I wanted mine to be somewhat minimalist with mostly greenery.

Here are my tips for your own DIY wreath:

1. Visit your local garden store/florist to purchase a plain wreath, or if you want to make it from scratch, you can also purchase the right greenery.

2. If you want to add some additional greenery like I have, I suggest going to your local flower shop. They often have greenery that they use for bouquets.

3. If you have extra Christmas decor lying around the house, incorporate it. If not, any dollar store would have tons of options.

4. Add your items to your wreath using (ideally dark green) wire. I created small little bunches with rubber bands. Use your own judgment on what looks good to you. I added and removed greenery several times until I was happy with it. Some people decorate a certain portion of a wreath like the bottom or one particular side. I prefer to do the whole wreath.

5. Hang up and enjoy!

Care tips: Real wreaths only last about 2-3 weeks indoors. If you mist it every 2-3 days, it helps prolong its time. If you have it outside in cooler temperatures, it will last longer.

I am pretty happy with the end result! I have mine hung up above the fire place. What do you think?